Fishing Charters in Alabama

Browse fishing charters in Alabama that can help you catch catfish.

Best Time to Catch Catfish

Catfish can be caught year-round in Scottsboro. Right now in February, activity is low.

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Seasonal Activity Chart

Catfish

Catfish

freshwater

Scottsboro, Alabama, offers excellent opportunities for chasing catfish, especially on the Tennessee River and Guntersville Lake. The warmer months, from late spring through early fall, are generally the most productive. Blues, channels, and flatheads all thrive here. Focus your efforts on areas with current, such as river channels, creek mouths, and below dams. Cut bait, live bait, and stink baits are all effective, depending on the species and conditions. For big blues, try drifting cut shad along the river channel. A local's secret: Guntersville State Park offers good bank fishing access, and several public boat ramps provide easy access to the main lake. Be prepared for some strong currents and varying water levels, especially after heavy rains. The catfish population here is healthy, with the potential for some truly trophy-sized fish.

How to Catch Catfish

Catfish Fishing Regulations in Alabama

Open Season

Year-round

Daily Bag Limit

No limit

Size Limit

No size limit

License Required

Alabama Fishing License

No limit on channel and blue catfish less than 34 inches in length. Only one blue catfish greater than 34 inches in length may be harvested per day.

⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Alabama state wildlife agency before fishing.

Related Species in Alabama

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any limits on catfish I can keep in Scottsboro, Alabama?

There are no size or bag limits for catfish in Alabama. You can catch and keep as many as you want.

What's the best bait for catching catfish around Scottsboro?

Popular catfish baits include stink baits, nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and cut bait. Experiment to see what works best in your chosen fishing spot.

Do I need a fishing license to catch catfish in Alabama?

Yes, you need a valid Alabama fishing license to fish for catfish in the state's public waters.

Can I fish for catfish year-round near Scottsboro?

Yes, the catfish season is open year-round in Alabama, so you can target them whenever you like.

More Catfish Fishing in Alabama

Other Species to Fish in Scottsboro

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